Unidentified Spitfire at Thornaby airfield.

On 27th February 1943 a number of 401 Squadron Spitfires were using Thornaby airfield as a forward operating base to allow them to be scrambled and intercept potential approaching enemy aircraft off the Yorkshire Coast. This Spitfire was being taxied around the airfield when the pilot attempted to avoid being hit by a Wellington. In turning the Spitfire ran into an area of soft ground, the wheels sunk and it tipped up on to its nose. The propeller received minor damage.

Pilot - Sgt David C Seton RCAF.